A recent Europol report indicates a troubling increase in violent museum thefts in Europe, with criminals using firearms, explosives, and physical assaults. This shift suggests the emergence of new criminal networks that are specifically targeting valuable cultural artefacts, diverging from traditional non-violent theft methods.
The report highlights that thieves are increasingly opting for high-value items like precious metals and ancient porcelain, often coordinating their efforts through social media. Notable incidents include violent break-ins at the Drents Museum and the Louvre, raising concerns about the safety of museum staff and visitors.